The Indian compact sedan market is buzzing with the launch of the all-new fourth-generation Maruti Suzuki Dzire and the third-generation Honda Amaze. Both vehicles are vying for top spot, setting a new benchmark for features in their class. But which one comes out on top? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of price, features, engine specifications, and fuel efficiency to help you make an informed decision.
Price Point: A Significant Gap
The pricing difference between these two rivals is substantial. The Honda Amaze boasts an introductory ex-showroom price ranging from ₹7.99 lakh to ₹10.90 lakh. In contrast, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, currently the segment leader, starts at ₹6.79 lakh and tops out at ₹10.14 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). This means the base Dzire variant is nearly ₹1.20 lakh cheaper than its Honda counterpart – a considerable saving for budget-conscious buyers.
Under the Hood: Engine Performance and Efficiency
The Honda Amaze is powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine, generating 88.5 bhp and 110 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 7-step CVT with paddle shifters. The Maruti Suzuki Dzire, on the other hand, utilizes a 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 80 bhp and 111.7 Nm of torque. It’s paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). A significant advantage for the Dzire is its availability with a factory-fitted CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) kit.
Fuel efficiency is a key differentiator. The Dzire’s CNG variant boasts a claimed mileage of 33.73 km/kg, significantly outperforming the Amaze’s claimed 18.65 kmpl (manual) and 19.46 kmpl (CVT). The petrol Dzire MT achieves a claimed 24.79 kmpl, while the AMT version claims 25.71 kmpl. This stark difference in fuel economy could significantly impact running costs over the vehicle’s lifespan.
Feature Showdown: A Battle of Amenities
While pricing and fuel economy favor the Dzire, the Amaze presents a more extensive list of features, especially in its higher trims. The Amaze’s base V trim already includes full LED lighting (headlights, indicators, ORVMs, and taillights), an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, steering-mounted controls, a 4-speaker audio system, a USB charging port, and a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster display. Stepping up to the top variant unlocks advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) through Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, LaneWatch Camera, lane-keeping assist, lead car departure alerts, and road departure mitigation. Further enhancements include 15-inch alloy wheels, Alexa compatibility, smartwatch connectivity, tire pressure monitoring, and wireless phone charging.
Safety features across the Amaze range are robust, incorporating 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, and Hill Start Assist. The Dzire, particularly its base LXI model, offers a more stripped-down approach. It lacks an infotainment system and LED lighting in the base variant but still provides key safety features such as 6 airbags, three-point seat belts, Hill Hold Assist, ABS with EBD, and reverse parking sensors. Notably, it has achieved a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. The top-end Dzire variant catches up feature-wise, offering LED lights, a 360-degree camera, tire pressure monitoring, a 9-inch infotainment system, a six-speaker sound system, wireless phone charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, multiple USB ports, and connected car technology.
The Verdict:
The choice between the Honda Amaze and Maruti Suzuki Dzire hinges on individual priorities. The Dzire offers a compelling price point and exceptional fuel efficiency, especially with the CNG option. The Amaze, however, counters with a more comprehensive feature set, including advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies. Ultimately, weighing the importance of price, fuel efficiency, features, and safety will determine which compact sedan best suits your needs and budget.
